TBM Disaster Relief responds to needs across North Texas after tornadoes

At least nine tornadoes spotted in metropolitan area Saturday evening

DALLAS—Texas Baptist Men Disaster Relief is responding to needs across North Texas this morning after nine tornadoes were confirmed in the area Saturday evening—particularly in Garland and Rowlett, which appear to be hit hardest by the twisters.

So far, the tornadoes have claimed the lives of at least 11 people, according to recent reports.

On Saturday, Ben Moberley, who coordinates chainsaw units for TBM Disaster Relief, relayed to volunteers that "several damaging tornadoes in Dallas Metroplex" had occurred, and relief assessments are being made.

At this time, TBM Disaster Relief Director Terry Henderson said a chainsaw unit is preparing to respond alongside the Rowlett Fire Department, while another unit is staging operations with Garland officials.

"We've got one with the Rowlett Fire Department and the Garland Fire Department, and they're going to be going through clearing debris, working with the fire departments," Henderson said.

According to reports by the Associated Press, Rowlett City Manager Brian Funderburk said 23 people were injured in the storms, which caused “huge amounts of damage” that is largely concentrated in the southern part of the city.

"We're going to bring two box units into both areas," Henderson added. "Right now, we're just on standby, waiting to see how they can clear the area."

The Box Ministry works to aid disaster survivors by providing moving boxes for gathering possessions.

Both communities are located within 20 to 30 miles northeast of Dallas.

As for the "the rest of the areas that have been hit, we're sending assessors to right now," Henderson said, "like Sunnyvale, Farmersville, Waxahachie.

"So we're just in the assessment mode right now."

TBM Disaster Relief will respond as needs are determined.

Please pray for those affected by these storms, as well as for our volunteers. Stay tuned for updates.

To support this ministry, call 214-275-1114 or give online here. You can also text "@TBM" (followed by the dollar amount you'd like to give) to 52014.